Integrated development at Johor’s RTS Link station could spawn similar projects along new rapid transit lines: Analysts

In KL Sentral, office towers, hotels, malls and residential properties are connected to major rail infrastructure including the KLIA Express, one of the fastest ways to travel between KL International Airport and the city centre. 

In Singapore, the integrated mixed-use concept has been adopted for years, especially in the heartlands. This month, the preview of ParkTown Residence, a condominium to be connected with Tampines North MRT Station and a mall, reportedly drew crowds of around 10,000.

Such transport-oriented developments are “inevitable” in Johor Bahru, with the city prioritising large-scale infrastructural developments with the RTS Link and the ART, said Samuel Tan, chief executive of Olive Tree Property Consultants.

“Transit-oriented development is undoubtedly beneficial for Johor Bahru’s long-term growth, as it promotes economic clustering, reduces congestion and enhances liveability,” added Lee Kun Thye, a director at Knight Frank Malaysia Johor Branch.

But unlike more compact cities like KL, integrated developments in Johor Bahru will need to be strategically located in “high density, high demand areas” to be effective, she added. 

With an elevated bus-tram ART system set to be built, areas like Tebrau and Mount Austin are “logical choices”, Lee told CNA. 

Mount Austin, one of Johor’s trendiest neighbourhoods, is known for its bustling entertainment scene.